Glenaholm is the oldest Rhodesian Ridgeback kennel in the world. The kennel was registered with the Kennel Union of South Africa in 1947 by Phyllis McCarthy, whose vision and devotion laid the foundation for one of the most respected Ridgeback lineages in history.
Her daughter Laurie Venter and Norah Reid (Ormerod) carried the Glenaholm torch after Phyllis retired — showing and breeding dogs that became known worldwide for their type and temperament. When Norah emigrated to the United States, Laurie continued breeding at her property, Chucklenook, just outside Johannesburg, while Norah established Glenaholm USA.
After Laurie’s passing in 2013, Litia McCarthy continued the Glenaholm bloodline in South Africa for another 15 years, maintaining the same dedication to health and Glenaholm’s unique temperament.
Over the decades, the landscapes have changed — the original Glenaholm estate is now a housing development, and the trees at Chucklenook have grown to shade the homes of Laurie’s family — yet one thing has remained constant:
Glenaholm dogs still look the same, and most importantly, they embody the same loyal and balanced character that defined them from the beginning.
Today, Norah Ormerod continues the Glenaholm tradition in America, preserving this living heritage with the same integrity and heart that began in 1947.
Our Legacy
For nearly eight decades, Glenaholm has been devoted to preserving the Ridgeback’s natural integrity. Our bloodlines trace back to the earliest foundations of the breed. We breed selectively, focusing on:
• Steady, gentle temperaments
• Strong, athletic builds true to the breed standard
• Lifelong health and sound structure
Many of our dogs have become champions and cherished family companions around the world. Every Glenaholm puppy carries with it the love, heritage, and honesty of a line that has endured since 1947.
Learn about our breeding philosophy »
See our champions »